Experience the difference. Meet your peers, talk with experts, build your network, and turn insights into action.
Sarah James
Sr Director Analyst
Gartner
Speaker Topics
- Agentic Analytics and AI
- Trends and Futures
- Value and Metrics
- Opening Keynote Unpacked
- Skills and Literacy
- Overall Data and Analytics Strategy
Speaker Bio
Sarah is a Senior Research Director in Gartner's CDAO practice where she focuses on topics at the intersection of data and human behaviour - including CDAO impact and influence, data-driven culture development, bringing people along on the data journey, self development, effective delivery, neurodiversity, and more.
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Sessions
Monday, 11 May, 2026 09:30 AM - 10:15 AM BST
Gartner Opening Keynote: Navigate AI on Your Data & Analytics Journey to Value
Jorg Heizenberg,
VP Analyst, Gartner
Sarah James,
Sr Director Analyst, Gartner
AI is accelerating new possibilities for data and analytics everywhere. Success isn’t always about being the fastest, but about finding your own path to value, while managing risk and cost. Join our Gartner’s Opening Keynote to discover how a thoughtful approach to speed and direction helps you prepare for what’s next, no matter where you are today.
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Tuesday, 12 May, 2026 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM BST
CDAO Circle Leadership Exchange: The Evolving CDAO — Archetypes, AI Ambitions and Growth Paths
Sarah James,
Sr Director Analyst, Gartner
Ian Bertram,
Managing Vice President, Gartner
Erick Brethenoux,
Distinguished VP Analyst, Gartner
Nate Novosel,
VP Analyst, Gartner
As the CDAO role continues to evolve in the AI era, organizations face critical decisions about the direction and impact of their data leadership. This session explores the future of the CDAO through three distinct archetypes: Expert, Collaborator and Pioneer. Attendees will learn how to assess and choose the archetype that best aligns with their organization’s AI ambition and strategic goals. Attendees will leave with actionable insights to define their CDAO journey and position themselves and their organizations for success in a rapidly changing digital landscape.
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Wednesday, 13 May, 2026 02:30 PM - 03:00 PM BST
Journey for Realizing Value From Data, Analytics and AI
Sarah James,
Sr Director Analyst, Gartner
D&A and AI leaders, including CDAOs, continue to face challenges in demonstrating the value of D&A and AI initiatives. This session will provide a roadmap for gaining stakeholder buy-in, quantifying value and building a robust business case, learning from the successes of other organizations, and continuously measuring results and adjusting.
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